Diabetes prevalence and management patterns in US adults, 2001-2023

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus is a major contributor to U.S. morbidity and mortality.
• Characterizing trends in diabetes is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze secular trends in diabetes prevalence from 2001 to 2023.
• To assess changes in glycemic control, lipid levels, blood pressure, and medication use over time.
• To identify demographic predictors of diabetes prevalence and control.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of National Health and Nutrition Examination Series (NHANES) data (2001-2023).
• Inclusion of 27,437 participants, with specific focus on 3467 diagnosed and 1602 undiagnosed diabetes cases.
• Outcomes included diabetes prevalence, glycemic control (hemoglobin A1c), lipid control (LDL), blood pressure, and medication use, analyzed against demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Diabetes prevalence rose from 10.0% to 15.1%, with higher rates in men and certain racial/ethnic groups.
• Glycemic control declined, with fewer individuals achieving hemoglobin A1c < 7% (61.5% to 44.9%).
• Lipid control improved but remained suboptimal; blood pressure control showed no significant change over time.

Conclusions:

• Diabetes prevalence has increased substantially between 2001 and 2023.
• Effective management of hyperglycemia and associated risk factors like hypertension and dyslipidemia remains inadequate.
• Targeted interventions are needed to address rising diabetes rates and improve patient outcomes.